The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Unger County Park

Unger County Park offers a selection of three dog-friendly hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These routes are perfect for exploring the park's natural beauty with your canine companion.

The park features a mix of terrain. You'll find a one-mile paved trail suitable for easy walks, which runs parallel to the Meramec River. Additionally, there are narrow, more exploratory dirt trails within the park's floodplain woodland. The longer routes often connect to the broader Meramec River Greenway, offering varied surfaces.

Yes, there are two easy dog-friendly hikes. The Simpson Park Lake – Henry L. Simpson Park loop from Museum of Transportation is an easy 3.6 km route, and the Simpson Park Blue Heron Trail offers an even shorter, easy 2.1 km walk, both perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog.

For a longer adventure, consider the Henry L. Simpson Park – Meramec Greenway Trail loop from Valley Park. This moderate 10.3 km route allows you and your dog to explore a significant portion of the Meramec Greenway, offering a more extended hiking experience.

Yes, both the Simpson Park Lake – Henry L. Simpson Park loop from Museum of Transportation and the Henry L. Simpson Park – Meramec Greenway Trail loop from Valley Park are designed as loops, providing convenient circular routes for you and your dog.

Unger County Park is home to a beautiful floodplain woodland with diverse trees like pecan, swamp white oak, and burr oak. You might even spot one of Missouri's largest river birch trees. The trails also offer views of a 20-acre lake and the Meramec River, with wetlands that attract various wildlife.

Absolutely. The park's paved trail and easy dirt paths make it very family-friendly. The relatively flat terrain and scenic views of the lake and river provide an enjoyable experience for both children and dogs. The shorter routes, like the Simpson Park Blue Heron Trail, are particularly well-suited for families.

The dog-friendly trails in Unger County Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 24 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet, secluded atmosphere, the scenic lake views, and the opportunity to walk alongside the Meramec River.

While dogs are permitted on trails in Unger County Park, it's generally recommended to keep them on a leash to ensure the safety of your pet, other visitors, and local wildlife. Always check local park regulations for specific leash requirements.

Unger County Park offers a reservable picnic shelter, which can be a great spot for a break with your dog. While specific dog-friendly facilities like waste stations might vary, general park amenities are available. It's always a good idea to bring your own waste bags and water for your dog.

Unger County Park can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for hiking. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best. Winter hikes can be serene, but be mindful of trail conditions, especially on unpaved sections.